Airfares to rise as UK passenger duties go up

Flights from Britain are becoming more expenses as passenger taxes are hiked in the first part of a two-part increase. Taxes on short-haul fights in economy class will increase by only 1 pound ($1.65) but long-haul flights in business and first class cabins will increase by up to 30 pounds ($50).
The rises are set to take effect Sunday, with the second phase to be introduced in one year. The price increase, which will be paid by passengers, has been condemned by British airlines and travel groups. British Airways customer services director Silla Maizey says the increases are not justified and are unfair to British vacationers. Travellers on private jets are exempt from the increases.